Report by Terry Francis and Colin Rogers

Harwich and Parkeston finished their pre-season preparation with another competitive fixture, losing 3-1 to their near neighbours, Brantham Athletic.
Brantham will be venturing into Step 4 football this season, whilst the Shrimpers, who also won promotion last term, will compete one rung down the ladder in Step 5.
It was Brantham who made the stronger start, taking the lead in the 9th minute with a well-worked goal when a cross to the far post was headed into the corner of the net by Yusef.

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Four minutes later, Harwich levelled the scores with a 35-yard shot across the goal into the far corner of the net from Max Long.
Harwich had done well to gradually work their way into the game and the first half finished with the scores level at one goal each.
After the break, Brantham were impressive and the Shrimpers had to battle hard to stay on terms, with their goalkeeper Brad Cook (pictured) saving well, point blank, when an attacker was unmarked.
Harwich had a chance with 67 minutes of the match gone when Luke Mayhew set up Louie Bloom, but he was off balance and shot wide.
Seconds later, Athletic regained the lead with a well-taken shot by Lachlan, out of the reach of Cook.

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Brantham scored their 3rd goal in the 75th minute when Lachlan finished well again with a shot into the bottom corner.
Athletic had created the better chances in this half and Harwich were now forced to defend well to prevent them adding to their tally.
In the closing stages, Cook made another good diving save at the expense of a corner whilst Reece Harte produced Harwich's best scoring attempt of the half with a fierce shot that went inches over the crossbar.
Matt Carmichael's side move onto their first Essex Senior League match on Saturday when they head to Great Wakering.
Our best wishes to Brantham for success in the coming season. They do not start their Isthmian League campaign until August 9.